The GE GCST11N1WSS is a capable mid-compact microwave that covers everyday needs well at $127.99, the 950W output and 10 power levels handle standard reheating and defrosting, and the touchscreen adds a clean look. With 233 reviews at 4.2 stars, buyer satisfaction is solid for this price tier.
Individuals, couples, or small households that need a reliable everyday microwave without paying for more capacity than they use. The 12.75-inch turntable handles standard plates, and the stainless finish fits most kitchen aesthetics.
Skip if
Skip if you regularly heat large dishes or family portions, 1.1 cu ft will feel cramped for oversized containers. Also consider that 950W is lower than average; if you want snappy reheating times, look at 1100 to 1200W units in a similar price range.
Capacity 1.1 cu ft
Heating Electric
Wattage 950 W
Power levels 10
Installation Countertop
Width 20.83 in
Priced 53% below the category median ($271.99 across 81 tracked models)
Wattage of 950 W - lower than 70% of the 84 models we track
Width of 20.83 in - wider than 69% of the 84 models we track
Our scorecard
4.2/5overall
Owner rating4.2/5
4.2 average across 233 owner ratings
Value for money3.9/5
$116 per cubic foot, below the category median
Popularity2.4/5
233 owner reviews, fewer than most models here
Storage space2.9/5
1.1 cu ft, roomy for this category
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other kitchen ranges, cooktops, wall ovens, range hoods and microwaves we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
GE's GCST11N1WSS fills the mid-compact segment: large enough to handle everyday plates and bowls, compact enough to fit on tighter counters. The 20.83-inch width and 15.62-inch depth give it a reasonable footprint that should fit most kitchens without crowding. A 12.75-inch turntable keeps most standard plates rotating freely.
The 950W output is functional but on the lower end for a 1.1 cu ft unit, reheating takes a few seconds longer compared to 1100W or 1200W models. The touchscreen interface is one of this model's cleaner design choices, giving it a more modern feel than basic button-only microwaves in this price bracket. Ten power levels provide enough range to handle tasks from full-power popcorn to low-power melting.
At $127.99 from GE with 233 honest reviews, this model is a reasonable purchase for a small household that wants a reliable brand name without paying for size or features they do not need.
Pros
10 power levels provide good control for defrosting, melting, and reheating
Touchscreen controls give a cleaner, more modern appearance than typical budget models
12.75-inch turntable fits standard dinner plates comfortably
Compact 15.62-inch depth is practical for tighter kitchen setups
Strong brand support from GE
Cons
950W is lower than average for this interior size, slightly slower reheating
1.1 cu ft cavity limits larger dishes or family-size portions
Touchscreen surfaces require a clean, dry hand to respond accurately
Specifications
Capacity
1.1 cu ft
Heating
Electric
Wattage
950 W
Power levels
10
Installation
Countertop
Width
20.83 in
Controls
Touchscreen
Color
Stainless Steel
Turntable
12.75 in
Dimensions
15.62 X 20.83 X 12 In
Weight
30.0 lb
Voltage
120 Volts
Performance notes
At 950W over a 1.1 cu ft cavity, heating performance is adequate for everyday tasks, a mug of coffee, leftover pasta, a bowl of soup, but not as fast as 1100W or 1200W competitors. The 10 power levels let you step down for defrost cycles or gentle heating tasks that would overcook at full power. A 12.75-inch turntable is a practical size for this cavity. The touchscreen adds a modern feel and is easy to wipe clean compared to button-and-membrane controls that trap crumbs.
What buyers say
Two hundred thirty-three reviews averaging 4.2 stars reflects consistent everyday satisfaction. This is a reliable signal: buyers generally find the unit meets expectations for reheating common household foods at this price. A minority of reviews likely reflect dissatisfaction with heating speed given the 950W output.
How noticeable is the difference between 950W and 1100W in daily use?
For most tasks, the difference is a matter of seconds to under a minute. Reheating a plate of leftovers at 950W versus 1100W might take 20 to 30 seconds longer. It adds up over time if you use the microwave frequently, but for light daily use it is not a major issue.
Is the touchscreen on the GE GCST11N1WSS reliable?
Touchscreen controls on microwaves generally work well when clean and dry. The concern is that wet or greasy fingers, common in a kitchen, can reduce responsiveness. If you tend to use your microwave mid-cooking without wiping hands, physical buttons may be more practical.
Can a 1.1 cu ft microwave fit a standard casserole dish?
A standard 9x13 inch casserole dish will not fit in most 1.1 cu ft microwaves, and this model is no exception. The 12.75-inch turntable diameter gives you a practical ceiling: round dishes up to about 12 inches wide will fit, and smaller rectangular containers will work. A casserole dish that size requires a 1.5 cu ft or larger unit.
We use necessary cookies to keep the site working. With your permission, we also use functional, analytics, and marketing cookies. Read our Cookie Policy.
